The Digital TV streaming service is booming. FirstSling TV came out and opened millions up to the potential of cutting their cable a few weeks ago, then rumors about Apple starting such a service came out. Now, Sony is experimenting with media streaming by releasing its PlayStation Vue service to select cities today.
PlayStation Vue, which has been in development for a long time now, will let you pay a hefty $50 a month to get access to a variety of live channels and original content. Users will have access to all channels owned by CBS, Fox, NBC, Discovery, Scripps, Turner, Viacom, and AMC. The service also has a number of additional options for users who want variety. For example, Vue's Core Package costs $59.99 and provides access to all the basic channels as well as BTN, Golf Channel and other local sports channels. The Elite package adds a number of niche channels, including Palladia, Chiller and Cloo.
While the content variety is pretty solid, what really makes Vue stand out is the interface. The Verge found it to be easy-to-use, accessible and interesting.
"When you start Vue, you'll automatically be in live TV mode on whatever channel you were on previously, just like turning on most cable boxes. When you jump into the interface, the live TV keeps playing in the background and you're presented with your 'timeline' - what you're currently watching, what's up next, and (if you scroll backwards), what you've watched recently," The Verge reported.
Many tech outlets have played with the service for a while, and most seem to like it. The Verge described it as "the most comprehensive, over-the-top TV service to launch thus far, and it's the one that gives the most people the best option for cutting cable entirely - or it will when it launches nationwide." Gizmodo says that "for those people who'd be willing to pay for the current selection of channels, PlayStation Vue sure looks swell."
Don't get too excited, though. At this time, the service is only available in Chicago, New York City and Philadelphia. Vue also requires a user to have a PS3 or PS4 console, though there will be an iPad app available in the near future.
Sony has not announced when PlayStation Vue will be available nationwide.
